Cinnamon Crunch Cheesecake Recipe

The Sweet Symphony: Cinnamon Crunch Cheesecake Recipe

Crafting a delectable cinnamon crunch cheesecake sparks pure culinary excitement for dessert enthusiasts.

Sweet layers promise an irresistible combination of creamy richness and crispy texture.

Warm spices dance through each decadent bite, creating a symphony of flavors.

Delicate cream cheese blends seamlessly with crunchy cinnamon elements that surprise and delight.

Baking this spectacular treat feels like a personal celebration of indulgence.

Home kitchens transform into gourmet spaces with this simple yet impressive recipe.

Let’s uncover the secrets to making a cheesecake that will become your new favorite dessert.

Cinnamon Crunch Cheesecake for Serious Dessert Fans

  • Elevate your dessert game with a delightful mix of graham crackers and cinnamon cereal, creating an irresistible crunchy base that adds texture and flavor to every bite.
  • Packed with creamy cheesecake goodness and a delicious cinnamon twist, this dessert appeals to all ages, from kids to adults, making it ideal for family gatherings, potlucks, and special celebrations.
  • Prepare this dessert in advance and let it chill overnight, reducing last-minute stress and allowing you to enjoy more time with your guests while serving a stunning, delectable dessert.

What Goes in Cinnamon Crunch Cheesecake

Crust Ingredients:
  • Graham Cracker Crumbs: A classic base that provides a sweet and crunchy foundation for the cheesecake.
  • Cinnamon Cereal, Sugar, Melted Butter: These ingredients help bind and enhance the crust's texture and flavor.
Filling Ingredients:
  • Cream Cheese: The primary ingredient that creates the rich and creamy cheesecake base.
  • Sour Cream: Adds tanginess and helps create a smooth, velvety texture.
  • Powdered Sugar: Provides sweetness and helps stabilize the filling.
  • Vanilla, Cinnamon: Warm spices that add depth and aromatic flavor to the cheesecake.
Topping Ingredients:
  • Cinnamon Cereal, Melted Butter, Sugar: A crunchy mixture that adds extra texture and sweetness to the top of the cheesecake.

How to Make a Crisp-Topped Cinnamon Crunch Cheesecake

Step 1: Craft The Crispy Crust

Warm up your oven to 325F.

Grab a mixing bowl and combine:
  • Graham cracker crumbs
  • Cinnamon cereal
  • Melted butter
  • Sugar

Press this delightful mixture firmly into a 9-inch springform pan.

Bake for 8 minutes, then let it cool completely.

Step 2: Create The Creamy Filling

In a large bowl, whip the cream cheese until silky smooth.

Blend in:
  • Sour cream
  • Powdered sugar
  • Vanilla extract
  • Ground cinnamon

Pour this luscious mixture over the cooled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.

Step 3: Chill And Set The Cheesecake

Cover the pan and park it in the refrigerator.

Let it rest for at least 4 hours or overnight until perfectly set.

Step 4: Prepare The Crunchy Topping

In a small bowl, mix together:
  • Crushed cinnamon cereal
  • Melted butter
  • Sugar

Stir until everything is evenly coated.

Step 5: Add Final Touches And Serve

Just before serving, sprinkle the crunchy topping over the chilled cheesecake.

Slice, plate, and savor every delectable bite!

Smart Tips for Cinnamon Crunch Cheesecake Success

  • Select full-fat cream cheese and fresh cinnamon cereal for the richest, most authentic flavor profile.
  • Avoid overmixing the cheesecake batter and use a water bath during baking to create a smooth, crack-free surface.
  • Allow cream cheese and sour cream to reach room temperature before mixing to ensure a silky, lump-free filling.
  • Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to achieve the ideal firm texture and enhance flavor development.
  • Sprinkle the crunchy cereal topping just before serving to maintain maximum crispness and prevent sogginess.

How to Store and Reheat Cinnamon Crunch Cheesecake

  • Store the cheesecake in an airtight container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap. Keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, ensuring the topping remains crisp by storing separately.
  • Wrap the cheesecake completely in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving to maintain texture.
  • Warm individual slices at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving to prevent soggy crust and texture loss.
  • Sprinkle fresh crushed cinnamon cereal just before serving to restore crunchiness and enhance the original texture of the dessert.

What to Pair with Cinnamon Crunch Cheesecake

  • Pair Sweet Muscadine Wine: Complement the rich, creamy cheesecake with a local Southern muscadine wine that offers subtle sweetness and hints of cinnamon, enhancing the dessert's warm spice profile.
  • Recommend Cinnamon Bourbon Cocktail: Create a custom cocktail using bourbon, cinnamon simple syrup, and a dash of vanilla that mirrors the cake's flavors, providing a sophisticated adult beverage pairing.
  • Suggest Cold Brew Coffee: Serve a chilled cold brew coffee with a touch of cinnamon or vanilla cream, cutting through the cheesecake's richness while harmonizing with its warm spice notes.
  • Match Caramel Apple Cider: Offer a warm, non-alcoholic option like spiced caramel apple cider that echoes the cake's cinnamon undertones and provides a comforting, seasonal companion to the dessert.

Flavor Twists on Cinnamon Crunch Cheesecake

  • Gluten-Free Cinnamon Crunch Cheesecake: Replace graham crackers with gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or almond flour. Use gluten-free cinnamon cereal and ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free.
  • Vegan Cinnamon Cheesecake: Substitute cream cheese with cashew-based cream cheese. Use coconut cream instead of sour cream. Replace butter with coconut oil and use plant-based cinnamon cereal for topping.
  • Low-Carb Keto Version: Create a crust using crushed pecans or almond flour mixed with melted butter. Use sugar-free sweetener instead of powdered sugar. Top with chopped nuts and sugar-free cinnamon cereal alternative.
  • No-Bake Cinnamon Cheesecake: Skip the baking process by using gelatin to set the filling. Chill the cheesecake for 6 hours until firm. Keep the cinnamon crunch topping as a crispy garnish.

FAQs

  • Can I use a different type of cereal for the crust and topping?

You can substitute with similar crunchy cinnamon-flavored cereals like Cinnamon Toast Crunch or Churros cereal. The key is choosing a cereal that provides crunch and complements the cinnamon flavor.

  • Is there a way to make this cheesecake less sweet?

Reduce the powdered sugar by 1/4 cup and use a less sugary cereal. You can also adjust the sweetness by using a tart sour cream or reducing the vanilla extract slightly.

  • How can I prevent cracks in my cheesecake?

Avoid overmixing the batter, bake in a water bath, and let the cheesecake cool gradually. Once baked, run a knife around the edges to prevent cracking as it cools and contracts.

  • Can I freeze this cheesecake?

Yes, wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

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Cinnamon Crunch Cheesecake Recipe

Cinnamon Crunch Cheesecake Recipe


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4.9 from 14 reviews

  • Total Time: 28 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Creamy cinnamon crunch cheesecake delights dessert enthusiasts with its irresistible blend of silky filling and crisp cinnamon streusel topping. Layers of rich flavor promise a memorable indulgence that elevates classic cheesecake to a whole new level of deliciousness.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 16 ounces (454 grams) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1 cup cinnamon cereal, crushed (for topping)
  • 1/2 cup cinnamon cereal, crushed (for crust)

Binding and Sweetening Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons sugar (for crust)
  • 2 tablespoons sugar (for topping)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Butter and Liquid Ingredients:

  • 1/4 cup melted butter (for crust)
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)

Instructions

  1. Craft a delectable base by blending graham cracker crumbs, crushed cinnamon cereal, melted butter, and sugar into a cohesive mixture. Press firmly into a 9-inch springform pan, creating an even layer.
  2. Bake the crust at 325F (160C) for 8 minutes, allowing it to develop a golden, crisp foundation. Remove from oven and let cool completely to ensure structural integrity.
  3. Whip softened cream cheese until silky smooth, eliminating any potential lumps. Incorporate sour cream, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon, mixing until the filling achieves a uniform, velvety consistency.
  4. Gently pour the creamy mixture over the cooled crust, using a spatula to spread evenly and eliminate air pockets. Ensure a perfectly level surface for an aesthetically pleasing presentation.
  5. Refrigerate the assembled cheesecake for a minimum of 4 hours, preferably overnight, allowing it to set completely and develop rich, complex flavors.
  6. Prepare the crunchy topping by combining crushed cinnamon cereal with melted butter and sugar, creating a textural garnish that adds delightful crunch and sweetness.
  7. Just before serving, generously sprinkle the cereal mixture over the chilled cheesecake, providing a delectable contrast to the smooth, creamy filling.
  8. Slice with a clean, sharp knife and serve chilled, savoring the harmonious blend of textures and flavors in this indulgent dessert.

Notes

  • Crush cereal finely for a more uniform and crispy crust base that holds together perfectly when slicing.
  • Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature to prevent lumps and create a silky smooth filling texture.
  • Use low-fat cream cheese and Greek yogurt as healthier alternatives without compromising the creamy richness.
  • Prepare this dessert a day ahead to allow flavors to meld and achieve the ultimate taste profile.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 356
  • Sugar: 20 g
  • Sodium: 300 mg
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Saturated Fat: 12 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 34 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 5 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg
Jack Sullivan

Jack Sullivan

Founder & Culinary Storyteller

Expertise

Single-recipe development with a narrative approach, Culinary storytelling and food history, Seasonal and regional ingredient utilization, Home cooking techniques adapted for modern kitchens​

Education

New England Culinary Institute (Montpelier, VT)
Certificate in Culinary Arts

Focused on farm-to-table cooking, sustainable practices, and modern plating techniques.​

​Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College
Associate Degree in Culinary Arts

Emphasized Southern Appalachian cuisine and local ingredient sourcing.​


Jack grew up surrounded by smoky skillets and handwritten recipes in the mountains of North Carolina. His roots in Appalachian cooking shaped the way he sees food – as something that connects people, tells a story, and holds meaning.
With hands-on training and a background in sustainable, regional cooking, Jack started Boil And Broil to make meaningful meals more accessible. He’s all about one-dish recipes that are simple to follow but rich with flavor and history.

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